The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured the readiness of venues for this year’s ICC Champions Trophy, as it hosted media representatives for a tour of stadiums in Lahore and Karachi on Monday.
The eight-team 50-over tournament marks the first global cricket event in Pakistan in 28 years. However, due to strained relations between Pakistan and India, India will play all its matches in Dubai.
Stadiums in Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi are undergoing significant upgrades, aiming to restore Pakistan’s reputation as a safe host for international cricket following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team.
“We are on schedule to complete the renovation and upgrade of the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore,” said PCB spokesperson Sami Ul Hasan. “The venue is expected to be handed over to us by the end of the month, and we have no doubt about its operational readiness to host the Champions Trophy match between Australia and England on February 22.”
The Gaddafi Stadium’s capacity has been increased to accommodate 35,000 spectators, and new hospitality areas have been constructed.
To demonstrate readiness, Lahore and Karachi will host a tri-nation series featuring New Zealand and South Africa next month, ahead of the Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19.
